Currently serving as CEO of Atira, Donna-Lynn brings her experience and passion to advancing the organization’s mission of supporting marginalized communities. Her previous role as Executive Director for Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) focused on land (back) acquisition, housing, operations, community safety, and Sen̓áḵw services.

She has a proven track record of leading transformational change in complex environments and is known for her fair, consistent, and kind leadership style, always guided by integrity. Donna-Lynn served as the General Manager for the City of Vancouver and as the Chief Administrative Officer of the Vancouver Board of Parks & Recreation, where she championed the creation of vibrant, livable spaces that prioritized community gathering, walkability, and climate resilience. She brings a remarkable ability to centre equity-denied voices in decision-making processes, ensuring everyone’s needs are heard and addressed.

Donna-Lynn has been recognized three times in Vancouver Magazine’s Power 50 list for her impact and influence in the region, a testament to her leadership and dedication to community. She has also been a strong advocate for mentorship, notably through Women4Climate, supporting climate leaders across Metro Vancouver with training, guidance, and connections. Her commitment to lifting others up and amplifying underrepresented voices continues to shape inclusive, community-driven solutions in the face of pressing social and environmental challenges.

Drawing lessons from playing and coaching NCAA and National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL) hockey, Donna-Lynn remains an avid supporter of women’s sport, with a focus on safety and inclusion in sport for all.

Her 2024 nomination for the YWCA Women of Distinction Award for Reconciliation in Action recognizes Sarah’s outstanding commitment to fostering dialogue and taking tangible actions toward building more equitable communities, particularly in support of Indigenous communities.

Sarah actively raises awareness of gendered violence and homelessness in her Board Chair roles with the Surrey Vulnerable Women and Girls Committee and the Richmond Community Social Services Committee, as well as Director with the BC Association of Community Health Centres.

Sarah has been with Atira Women’s Resource Society for over a decade and has championed several roles including Program Manager, Director and Executive Director, Operations, and now Chief Operating Officer for the Atira Group of Companies.

Her career includes leadership roles in both non-profit and government sectors, with a strong track record in strengthening internal controls, fostering stakeholder relationships, and driving financial sustainability.

Her experience extends globally, having worked with international organizations in China and South America.

Holding a Bachelor of Commerce and CPA, CA designation, Jacqui brings a strategic and values-driven approach to financial leadership, ensuring Atira remains strong and resilient in its mission.

Two years ago, Hajar moved to California where she earned a Masters’ degree in International Policy and Development, with a Monitoring and Evaluation Specialization. Hajar has a young family and is just recently moved to Canada.

He was also heavily involved with the Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Center of BC, answering crisis calls and providing suicide prevention talks in local high schools. Jose started working for Atira in 2009 as a support worker at the Arco Hotel, became the Program manager in 2011 and has had several managerial roles within his 12 years at Atira. He has also been training staff in “non-violent crisis intervention” for last four years and after the COVID 19 pandemic hit Jose collaborated with the Director of Talent to create an online version of the training.  Jose became the Director of Supportive Housing and Tenant Relations in February of 2020 and has since focused on supporting Program Managers so they can provide the best possible care to the members of the community we serve. Jose believes in creating a housing environment that is accepting, respectful, caring and safe, and where tenants have influence over their living situations as he believes this is the foundation for health and wellness.

As Executive Director, Finance & Controller (CPA), Deepak works closely with Anita and the Finance Leadership team to ensure smooth functioning of the Finance department.